Cilantro Lime Noodles
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and a hint of spice, making them perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe offers a zesty twist that will leave your taste buds dancing. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or as a side dish at gatherings, these noodles showcase the vibrant taste of cilantro combined with the bright zing of lime. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a savory bowl that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: The combination of cilantro, garlic, and lime creates an explosion of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: Enjoy these noodles as a main course or as a side dish to complement various meals.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or top with your favorite sauces.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and simple components, these noodles are a nutritious choice.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Cilantro Lime Noodles, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your cooking process and ensure you achieve perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heat-proof bowl
- Pot for cooking noodles
- Cooking utensil (spatula or wooden spoon)
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heat-proof bowl: This allows you to mix hot ingredients safely without risk of breakage.
- Pot for cooking noodles: A good pot ensures even cooking and allows you to prepare multiple servings at once.
- Cooking utensil: A spatula or wooden spoon helps combine ingredients effectively while preventing damage to your pots.
Ingredients
An easy, savoury, and zesty bowl of Cilantro Lime Noodles with a hint of spice and earthiness from chili and curry powder.
For the Noodles
- 5.2 oz dry noodles of choice (2 servings) I used knife cut noodles
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (see notes)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 small shallot (or red onion)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tbsp chilli powder (optional for extra spice)
- 1/4 cup oil (I used olive oil)
- 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce (to taste)
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice (juice from 1 lime)
How to Make Cilantro Lime Noodles
Step 1: Prepare Your Noodles
Prepare your noodles according to package instructions but undercook them slightly so they remain chewy. Rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside in a colander while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
In a large heat-proof bowl, mix together:
Chopped cilantro
Minced garlic
Shallot or red onion
Curry powder
Sugar
Chili powder
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in the pot over medium to medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes until hot. You can test if it’s ready by adding a small piece of garlic; it should sizzle immediately.
Step 4: Pour Oil Over Mixed Ingredients
Turn off the heat and carefully pour the hot oil over the mixture in your bowl. Enjoy the sizzle! Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
Step 5: Add Sauces
Add in vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Stir well until everything is blended together nicely.
Step 6: Combine with Noodles
Add cooked noodles into the bowl with the sauce mixture. Toss gently to coat all noodles evenly in the flavorful sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more mushroom oyster sauce if needed.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Finish with some chili oil or sauce if desired for extra heat. Serve immediately while hot! Enjoy your vibrant Cilantro Lime Noodles!
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Noodles
Cilantro Lime Noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them as a main dish or a side, these zesty noodles can complement many flavors.
As a Main Dish
- Serve hot for an enticing dinner option that is both filling and flavorful.
- Pair with grilled vegetables for a healthy and colorful plate that adds texture.
With Proteins
- Add grilled chicken for a heartier meal that balances the freshness of the noodles.
- Toss in sautéed shrimp to enhance the dish with seafood flavors.
As a Cold Salad
- Chill the noodles and serve them cold with extra lime juice for a refreshing summer salad.
- Mix in diced cucumbers and bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
Topped with Nuts
- Sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews on top for an added crunch that elevates the dish.
- Drizzle with sesame oil for a nutty finish that enhances the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Noodles
To achieve the best Cilantro Lime Noodles, follow these tips to enhance flavor and texture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cilantro, garlic, and lime juice provide vibrant flavors that dried ingredients cannot match.
- Adjust spice levels: Experiment with chili powder to find your preferred level of heat. Start small and add more as needed.
- Cook noodles al dente: Slightly undercooking your noodles ensures they maintain their texture when mixed with sauce.
- Mix immediately: Pouring hot oil over the cilantro mix right after heating preserves the brightness of the herbs.
- Taste before serving: Always taste your dish before plating, adjusting seasonings as necessary to suit your palate.
- Garnish creatively: Consider adding lime wedges or additional cilantro on top before serving for an appealing presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Noodles
Cilantro Lime Noodles pair well with several side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with lime dressing complements the zesty noodles perfectly.
- Thai Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies add a crunchy contrast to the soft noodles.
- Sesame Broccoli: This simple side brings an earthy flavor that balances the bright notes of the noodles.
- Spicy Edamame: Seasoned edamame pods provide protein while adding a kick of heat, making it a satisfying side.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar refreshes the palate between bites of rich noodles.
- Miso Soup: Warm miso soup serves as a comforting start to your meal, adding depth alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cilantro Lime Noodles, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls for the best flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the noodles – Undercook your noodles slightly to maintain a chewy texture. If they’re too soft, they won’t hold up well in the dish.
- Neglecting seasoning – Always taste your sauce before adding it to the noodles. Adjust the seasoning with more vegetarian oyster sauce or lime juice as needed.
- Using stale ingredients – Fresh cilantro is key for flavor. Ensure your herbs and spices are fresh for the best results.
- Skipping the oil heating step – Heating the oil properly releases flavors from garlic and shallots. Don’t skip this crucial step or you’ll miss out on depth.
- Not mixing enough – When combining the noodles with the sauce, mix thoroughly to ensure every noodle is coated with that vibrant cilantro lime flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the noodles to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
- Consider portioning into meal-sized servings for easy thawing.
Reheating Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cilantro Lime Noodles:
What noodles work best for Cilantro Lime Noodles?
You can use any dry noodle of choice. Knife cut noodles provide a great texture, but rice noodles or spaghetti also work well.
Can I make Cilantro Lime Noodles vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring all sauces used are plant-based.
How spicy are Cilantro Lime Noodles?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The chili powder is optional, so feel free to omit it for milder noodles.
Can I customize my Cilantro Lime Noodles?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
How do I enhance the flavor of my Cilantro Lime Noodles?
Consider adding toasted sesame oil or fresh lime zest to elevate the dish’s flavor profile even more.
Final Thoughts
Cilantro Lime Noodles offer a delightful blend of freshness and zesty flavors that make them truly irresistible. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy!
Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances zesty lime, aromatic cilantro, and a hint of spice. This easy-to-make recipe takes just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or as a standout side at gatherings. With a simple blend of fresh ingredients, you can create a comforting bowl that bursts with flavor. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with grilled proteins and vegetables, these noodles are versatile enough to complement any meal. Experience a delightful taste sensation with every bite!
Ingredients
- 5.2 oz dry noodles (your choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 small shallot or red onion
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tbsp chili powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions, slightly undercooking them. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
- In a large heat-proof bowl, combine chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot, curry powder, sugar, and optional chili powder.
- Heat olive oil in the pot until hot. Pour the hot oil over the mixture in the bowl and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in the mushroom oyster sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice until well combined.
- Toss cooked noodles into the sauce mixture until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately while hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
